Frequently Asked Membership Questions

1. What is ISES?

ISES stands for the International Special Events Society. The International Special Events Society (ISES) is the premier society for Event Professionals. Your membership in ISES also allows you to build relationships with other professionals worldwide within the special events industry.

2. If I join a Chapter am I also a member of the International Chapter?

Yes, when you join a local chapter, you also become a member of the international organization. However, your membership application needs to be completed through ISES HQ or the International Affiliaite office.

3. When does my membership expire?

No matter when you join ISES throughout the year (July-April); your membership will expire on June 30th. However, if you join in May or June your membership will not expire until the following calendar year.

4. How much does membership cost for ISES USA ?

ISES membership fees are $399 for corporate or individual; or $299 for nonprofit—full year rate; plus a $50 application fee. Student memberships are $35 and require volunteer service to the chapter and approval from a university representative. ISES also holds two international membership drives each year in December and May. These membership drives offer additional incentives for joining ISES.

5. How much does membership cost for ISES Australasia, ISES Canada or ISES United Kingdom ?

ISES membership fees vary per the International Affiliate. Check the Affiliate website for the most current membership fees.

6. Does ISES accept student members?

USA Student memberships are $35 per year and can be held for a maximum of two years (additional years beyond two will be addressed by ISES International and the schools' Program Coordinator). Student members must be enrolled as a part or full-time student in a recognized certificate or degree program. Student members are encouraged to get involved with the chapter by volunteering ten (10) hours to their chapter per year, helping with chapter meetings and event registration, mailings, and other chapter business such as coordinating chapter community service and special projects.

However, student members do not receive full ISES member privileges. Student members are not eligible to have a listing on the ISES Web site; they do not qualify for Member Discounts; nor can they vote on chapter business or hold an office in ISES. In addition, student members are not be permitted to use the ISES logo on business cards or any promotional material.

7. How do I join ISES USA ?

The easiest and fastest way to join ISES is online at www.ises.com . Your membership will be immediately activated and will not expire until June 30, 2008. If you prefer to pay by check, your membership may not be activated for 6-8 weeks; due to ISES Headquarters check processing procedures.

8. How do I join ISES Australasia, ISES Canada or ISES United Kingdom ?

Please visit the individual Affiliate website for the most current membership application and fees.

9. Who can/should join ISES?

ISES Membership brings together professionals from a variety of special event disciplines including caterers, meeting planners, decorators, event planners, audio-visual technicians, party and convention coordinators, entertainers, educators, journalists, photographers, hotel sales managers and many more professional disciplines.

10. What are the benefits of membership?

The Society encourages professional development and certification and presents countless opportunities for networking and connecting with industry resources. For complete list of member benefits refer to the Why Join ISES? sheet.

11. When and where are my local ISES Chapter meetings held?

Each ISES Chapter has its own meeting schedule. To find the ISES Chapter meeting or event closest to you, please visit our Chapter page .

12. Is there a charge to attend monthly meetings?

Most chapters charge some kind of fee for meetings. Please check with your chapter for fees. To find the ISES Chapter nearest to you, please visit our Chapter page .

13. What type of educational opportunities does ISES offer to members?

ISES offers comprehensive, year-round, local and international educational experiences for professionals in the special events industry such as Eventworld: A Conference for Professional Development. Eventworld is a continuing education conference for the special events industry where attendees have the opportunity to improve their professional skills and knowledge. The traveling conference is held annually in August. Information and registration forms are mailed to members and are also made available online at www.ises.com. In addition, ISES has a “Cooperative Alliance” with Special Events Magazine which produces The Special Event, an annual industry Tradeshow and Conference for Event Professionals in the United States .

14. Does ISES offer any type of certification?

Yes, the Certified Special Events Professional or CSEP designation. The CSEP designation is the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry. It is earned through education, performance, experience, and service to the industry, and reflects a commitment to professional conduct and ethics. The CSEP designation is awarded by the International Special Events Society (ISES) and its Certification Committee. ISES is the only international umbrella organization representing professionals in all disciplines of the special events industry. Education and a commitment to professionalism are cornerstones of ISES.

15.  I would like to log-in to my ISES account at www.ises.com and make changes to my personal information. How can I do that; and what is my password?

If you are a new member or have never logged into the International Web site, you will use the membership number listed on your ISES ID; and your password is welcome. However, once you change your password after your first log-in; you will need to retain it for your reference and future entry to the site.

16.  What if I can't make it to a monthly meeting, can I send someone from my company in my place at the member rate?

Each ISES Chapter has its own meeting policies. To find the ISES Chapter meeting and to check on meeting policies, please visit our Chapter page .